The Sony HXR-NX800 and PXW-Z200 boast advanced imaging technologies, superior lens systems and robust image stabilization. What’s more, they offer streamlined workflows and connectivity features that cater to the needs of modern production environments
Both cameras share some impressive features including a 14-megapixel 1.0-type Exmor RS CMOS stacked sensor as well as a dedicated AI chip, that offers enhanced autofocus capabilities including advanced AI AF framing modes.
4K Sensor and Recording
The 14-megapixel 1.0-type Exmor RS CMOS stacked sensor found on both cameras delivers superior low-light performance and 4K/60p full-width recording and offers 5K oversampling and 4K/120p with a 23% crop, to help ensure exceptional image quality for professional productions.
AI-Powered Autofocus and Framing
Both models also feature Fast Hybrid AF with 475 points, covering 81% of the sensor.
Professional Zoom Capabilities
The cameras are equipped with a 24-480mm f/2.8-4.5 equivalent G Lens, providing 20x optical zoom, extendable to 30x in 4K and 40x in Full HD when using Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology. The lens also includes a variable ND filter ranging from 1/4 to 1/128 strength for seamless adjustments in changing lighting conditions.
Real-time Tracking
Users can initiate ‘touch tracking’ by simply tapping the LCD screen, allowing the camera to follow a subject automatically and the advanced pose estimation capability keeps subjects in focus even when they turn away from the camera.
Auto Framing Capabilities
The AI-based Auto Framing system adjusts composition to keep subjects centered automatically, especially handy in situations where manual adjustments during live shoots may not be possible.
S-Cinetone and HLG Support
Both models feature various colour presets, including S-Cinetone, ITU709, and HLG options, helping to facilitate easy colour matching with footage from Sony’s broadcast, Cinema Line, and Alpha cameras. Both cameras also support a wide range of recording formats, including XAVC HS, XAVC S, and XAVC SI, offering versatility for different production needs.
Active Mode Stabilisation
Active Mode image stabilisation can be found on both models, and works by combining optical and electronic stabilisation to produce smooth, stable footage by compensating for camera shake through lens movement and BIONZ processor adjustments. One thing to keep in mind when using it is that it will result in a slightly narrower angle of view compared to the Standard mode.
Built-in Streaming Options
Both cameras support live streaming via RTMP/RTMPS or SRT protocols when connected to Wi-Fi networks allowing for immediate content distribution to various streaming services and video sites, enhancing real-time production capabilities.
Cloud Integration
Sony’s Creators’ Cloud for enterprise services integrates seamlessly with these camcorders and when paired with the PDT-FP1 portable data transmitter, users can access higher quality streaming using Sony’s proprietary QoS technology.
Note: The cloud ecosystem also includes services like C3 Portal, XDCAM pocket, and M2 Live cloud broadcast system
File Transfer Capabilities
Both models support versatile file transfer options, including HEVC (H.265) and AVC (H.264) codecs and offer automatic upload to cloud or FTP servers and proxy chunk capabilities for high-quality, secure file transfers, enhancing post-production workflows.
Differences
While both cameras share many of the same features, there are some notable differences that set them apart, including:
Connectivity: The PXW-Z200 offers a 12G-SDI output option, which is highly suitable for professional workflows, especially in live broadcasting scenarios. This feature is absent in the HXR-NX800.
Timecode Functionality: The PXW-Z200 includes timecode input/output, making it more suitable for multi-camera setups, such as those used in newsrooms.
Recording Capabilities: The HXR-NX800 offers various recording formats, including XAVC S-I with 10-bit 4:2:2 4K recording, XAVC HS-L (H.265), and XAVC S-L (H.264). It also supports XAVC HS Proxy recording up to 16 Mbps.
Future Updates: The PXW-Z200 is scheduled to receive a firmware update in summer 2025, which will add support for XAVC (MXF) recording.
Weight: There’s a slight difference in weight, with the PXW-Z200 being marginally heavier at 1.96 kg compared to the HXR-NX800’s 1.93 kg.
